Proposed cuts to be reviewed in upcoming budget hearings

Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) said the 2011-12 state budget proposal presented by Gov. Tom Corbett on Tuesday is a difficult but important first step toward adopting a fiscally responsible spending plan.

“For the first time in eight years, we will finally cut spending,” said Causer, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “State government has been living beyond its means for far too long; that will finally come to an end this year.

“There is no question that some of the cuts the governor is proposing are painful, and as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will be taking a very careful look at those cuts and their potential impact on our communities and our citizens,” he continued. “In the end, we have no choice but to cut spending. It’s what the people want, and it’s up to us as lawmakers to make the tough decisions we need to achieve that goal.”

Corbett’s $27.3 billion budget proposal represents a spending reduction of 3.1 percent, or $866.3 million, when compared to the current year’s budget.

Over the next three weeks, Causer and members of the House Appropriations Committee will question administration officials representing all state departments and agencies about their budget needs in an effort to identify additional cuts or funding needs. Based on the information gathered, a budget bill will be introduced into the state House for debate.

A budget must be passed by the end of the fiscal year, June 30. After eight straight years of late budgets during the Rendell administration, Causer said he and legislative leaders are committed to getting the job done on time.

“From day one, my priorities have been to pass an on-time, fiscally responsible budget with no new or increased taxes,” Causer said. “We will examine the governor’s proposal in detail over the coming weeks and months to develop the best possible blue print for the Commonwealth’s future.”